CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Just like adults, children feel more confident and secure when their daily activities are predictable and familiar. A consistent daily schedule helps children feel in control of their environment.
Today we're talking organization and starting kids young. Just like adults, children feel more confident and secure when their daily activities are predictable and familiar. A consistent daily schedule helps children feel in control of their environment. Here to help your kids develop a routine is Laurie Martin from Simplicity Organizers. “Yes! Routines help set children up for success and minimize frustration” says Martin. She adds “around the age of 5, you can start creating routines with your children.” Instead of telling your children what their routines should be, Create a list together of what they should be doing in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Post your routines in well traffic areas so that kids are reminded of their routine. Have your children write or type up their routines, and they can decorate it too. Offer gentle reminders and praise your children and motivate them to follow their routines. It’s okay if you get off track. Here are some examples of established routines:
AFTERNOON ROUTINES
Trash Sweep- Have everyone pick up trash. Designate a car captain who is the last one out to make sure everything is out of the car. Keep grocery bag in the car for trash. (Trash can)
Shoe Basket- By designating a spot for shoes, you are not only limiting the amount of the dirt in the house, but also preventing lost shoes for the morning when school time calls.
Empty your backpack- water bottle, snack cup, lunch box by sink. Designated location for backpacks- basket, cubby, or hook.
Paper Tray- Put assignments out for parents to review.
Adopt some of these routines and you will be setting your kids up for success and getting order to a home that can be chaotic especially now that school has started. For more information visit simplicity-organizers.com